Methods and arrangements for securing fabric

ABSTRACT

An arrangement for securing fabric relative to a framework comprising a framework, a groove in the framework, and a locking spline for being received into the groove in the framework whereby a fabric panel can be retained relative to the framework by an insertion of the locking spline into the groove with a portion of the fabric panel disposed between the locking spline and the groove. The framework can have an obverse side, a peripheral edge, and a reverse side and the groove can be disposed to the reverse side of the framework whereby the fabric panel can be applied to the framework with a portion of the fabric panel retained within the groove and with the fabric panel reversing over the peripheral edge of the framework and traversing at least a portion of the framework. A secondary groove can enable a retention of a secondary material.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to fabric applicationsystems and methods. More particularly, disclosed and protected hereinare certain methods and arrangements for securing fabric in place, suchas relative to a frame or the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In traditional upholstered furniture construction, a layer offabric, commonly referred to as any “A” layer, is retained relative to aframe structure overlying one or more subsurface layers, commonlyreferred to as “B”, “C”, and possibly further layers. The subsurfacelayers, which can comprise additional fabric layers, foam layers,springs, bands, and the like, generally provide continuous support tothe “A” layer. As such, the “A” layer itself need only be attached tothe frame structure; it need not provide substantial support. With this,attachment methods for “A” layers in such structures commonly involvesimple stapling, adhering, or the like.

[0003] More recently, furniture constructions have been developedwherein one or more panels of fabric span a framework with no centralsupport. Commonly, the fabric comprises an elastomeric material, such asan elastomeric mesh material. Since the fabric panel acts as the solemeans of support to furniture occupants and the like, the peripheraledges of the fabric panel must be attached particularly securely.

[0004] Attempting that that secure attachment presents unique challengesto the furniture maker. This is particularly the case relative toelastomeric materials and especially so relative to elastomeric meshmaterials. For example, for optimal appearance and performance,elastomeric materials normally must be pretensioned and secured in placewhile maintaining that pretensioning.

[0005] Additionally, since elastomeric material, particularlyelastomeric mesh, is formed by numerous individual elastomericfilaments, continuous support must be provided over substantially theentire periphery of the fabric panel to ensure that each elastomericfilament is fixedly retained. Even further still, it can be desirable toprovide different support characteristics relative to different areas ofthe panel of elastomeric material, which may demand a variable patternof pretensioning, thereby further complicating the attachment process.

[0006] Prior art methods and structures have struggled in seeking toconfront the aforementioned and further challenges of retaining a fabricpanel. Certain structures have proven to be undesirably complex andexpensive in structure and manufacture. Other methods and structureshave failed to provide adequate retention of the fabric panel. Stillfurther, particularly since the fabric panel acts as the sole means ofsupport to furniture occupants and the like, it has been found that manyprior art attachment arrangements have left the fabric panel and theedges thereof disadvantageously vulnerable to dislodging, damage, andtampering.

[0007] These and further disadvantages have frustrated the ability ofelastomeric material structures from achieving widespread availabilityand commercial success. As a result, it is clear that there remains adiscernable need for methods and arrangements for retaining fabricrelative to a framework in a secure manner that meets the needs andovercomes the disadvantages that have been left by the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Advantageously, the present invention is founded on a basicobject of overcoming the disadvantages suffered by the prior art whileproviding a number of previously unrealized advantages thereover.

[0009] A more particular object of embodiments of the invention is toprovide an arrangement for retaining fabric relative to a fiamework in asecure manner.

[0010] A related object of embodiments of the invention is to provide anarrangement for retaining fabric relative to a framework that providessubstantially continuous support over at least a portion of a peripheryof a fabric panel to provide a reliable retention of individual fibersforming the fabric panel.

[0011] Another object of particular embodiments of the invention is toprovide a method and arrangement for retaining fabric relative to aframework that permits and maintains a selective pretensioning of thefabric, including with a variable pretensioning pattern.

[0012] Still another object of certain embodiments of the invention isto provide a method and arrangement for retaining a panel of fabricrelative to a framework that resists damage to the panel of fabric.

[0013] An even further object of embodiments of the invention is toprovide a method and arrangement for retaining a fabric panel relativeto a framework that inhibits tampering with the attachment of the fabricpanel.

[0014] A more particular object of embodiments of the invention is toprovide a method and arrangement for retaining a fabric panel relativeto a framework that provides evidence of tampering.

[0015] Yet another object of the invention is to provide a method andarrangement for retaining a fabric panel relative to a framework that isefficient in construction and manufacture such that a resultingstructure can be made and sold in a cost effective manner.

[0016] These and in all likelihood further objects and advantages of thepresent invention will become obvious not only to one who reviews thepresent specification and drawings but also to those who experience anembodiment of the methods and arrangements for securing fabric disclosedherein. However, it will be appreciated that, although theaccomplishment of each of the foregoing objects in a single embodimentof the invention may be possible and indeed preferred, not allembodiments will seek or need to accomplish each and every potentialadvantage and function. Nonetheless, all such embodiments should beconsidered within the scope of the present invention.

[0017] One will appreciate that the present discussion broadly outlinesthe more important goals of the invention to enable a betterunderstanding of the detailed description that follows and to instill abetter appreciation of the inventor's contribution to the art. Beforeany particular embodiment or aspect thereof is explained in detail, itmust be made clear that the following details of construction,descriptions of hardware and software designs, and illustrations ofinventive concepts are mere examples of the many possible manifestationsof the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] In the accompanying drawing figures:

[0019]FIG. 1A is a sectioned view in side elevation of a frame structureaccording to the present invention;

[0020]FIG. 1B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 1A;

[0021]FIG. 1C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 1A;

[0022]FIG. 1D is a partially sectioned view in front elevation of theframe structure of FIG. 1A;

[0023]FIG. 2A is a sectioned view in side elevation of an alternativeframe structure according to the present invention;

[0024]FIG. 2B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 2A;

[0025]FIG. 2C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 2A;

[0026]FIG. 2D is a partially sectioned view in front elevation of theframe structure of FIG. 2A;

[0027]FIG. 3A is a sectioned view in side elevation of anotheralternative frame structure according to the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 3B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 3A;

[0029]FIG. 3C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 3A;

[0030]FIG. 3D is a partially sectioned view in front elevation of theframe structure of FIG. 3A;

[0031]FIG. 4A is a sectioned view in side elevation of still anotheralternative frame structure according to the present invention;

[0032]FIG. 4B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 4A;

[0033]FIG. 4C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 4A;

[0034]FIG. 4D is a partially sectioned view in front elevation of theframe structure of FIG. 4A;

[0035]FIG. 5A is a sectioned view in side elevation of a further framestructure;

[0036]FIG. 5B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 5A;

[0037]FIG. 5C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 5A in a given stage of production;

[0038]FIG. 5D is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 5A in a later stage of production;

[0039]FIG. 5E is a partially sectioned view in front elevation of theframe structure of FIG. 5A;

[0040]FIG. 6A is a sectioned view in side elevation of another framestructure pursuant to the present invention;

[0041]FIG. 6B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 6A;

[0042]FIG. 6C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 6A;

[0043]FIG. 7A is a sectioned view in side elevation of a further framestructure according to the present invention;

[0044]FIG. 7B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 7A;

[0045]FIG. 7C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 7A;

[0046]FIG. 8A comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof an even further frame structure;

[0047]FIG. 8B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof another frame structure according to the present invention;

[0048]FIG. 9A is a sectioned view in side elevation of a further framestructure;

[0049]FIG. 9B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 9A;

[0050]FIG. 10A is a sectioned view in side elevation of still anotherframe structure as disclosed herein;

[0051]FIG. 10B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 10A;

[0052]FIG. 10C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 10A;

[0053]FIG. 11A is a sectioned view in side elevation of a further framestructure pursuant to the instant invention;

[0054]FIG. 11B comprises sectioned, portioned top and bottom plan viewsof the frame structure of FIG. 11A;

[0055]FIG. 11C is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 11A;

[0056]FIG. 12A is a sectioned view in front elevation of a portion ofanother frame structure as disclosed herein in a given stage ofmanufacture;

[0057]FIGS. 12B, 12C, and 12D are views in side elevation of lockingsplines pursuant to the present invention;

[0058]FIG. 12E is a sectioned view in front elevation of the portion offrame structure of FIG. 12A in a later stage of manufacture;

[0059]FIG. 12F is a view in front elevation of a locking spline underthe present invention;

[0060]FIG. 13A is a sectioned view in front elevation of an even furtherframe structure pursuant to the invention disclosed herein in a givenstage of manufacture;

[0061]FIG. 13B is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 13A in a later stage of manufacture;

[0062]FIG. 14A is a sectioned view in front elevation of an additionalframe structure under the present invention in a given stage ofmanufacture;

[0063]FIG. 14B is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 14A in a later stage of manufacture;

[0064]FIG. 14C depicts views in side elevation of alternative lockingsplines pursuant to the present invention;

[0065]FIG. 15A is a sectioned view in front elevation of another framestructure according to the present invention in a given stage ofmanufacture;

[0066]FIG. 15B is a sectioned view in front elevation of the framestructure of FIG. 15A in a later stage of manufacture;

[0067]FIG. 15C depicts views in side elevation of further lockingsplines pursuant to the present invention;

[0068]FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C comprise sectioned views in frontelevation of frame structures according to the present invention infirst, second, and third stages of manufacture;

[0069]FIG. 17 is a sectioned view in front elevation of an even furtherframe structure according to the present invention;

[0070]FIG. 18 is a sectioned view in front elevation of another framestructure pursuant to the present invention;

[0071]FIG. 19 is a schematic view of a seat bottom frame structure withvariable tension and deflection zones;

[0072]FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of a portion of a framestructure according to the present invention;

[0073]FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of a frame structure accordingto the present invention depicted a force dissipation;

[0074]FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of a prior art frame structure;

[0075]FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of an alternative locking splineaccording to the invention disclosed herein;

[0076]FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of a frame structure employingthe locking spline of FIG. 23;

[0077]FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of another frame structure andlocking spline arrangement; and

[0078]FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of still another frame structureand locking spline arrangement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBDODIMENTS

[0079] As is the case with many inventions, the methods and arrangementsfor retaining a fabric panel relative to a framework disclosed hereinare subject to a wide variety of embodiments. However, to ensure thatone skilled in the art will be able to understand and, in appropriatecases, practice the present invention, certain preferred embodiments ofthe broader invention revealed herein are described below and shown inthe accompanying drawing figures.

[0080] In considering the present invention, it will be appreciated thatthe fabric referenced herein could be substantially any type of pliablematerial that could be made by any method. In some cases, the fabric cancomprise a mesh material. In further cases, the fabric can be anelastomeric material. In still further cases, the fabric can be anelastomeric mesh. The structure to which the fabric is secured can alsovary widely. The structure could, by way of example, be a framework,such as a framework for a component of an article of furniture or anyother type of framework.

[0081] Looking more particularly to the drawings, an example of a framestructure taking advantage of the present invention is indicatedgenerally at 10 in FIGS. 1A through 1D. The frame structure 10 isfounded on a framework 12 that can be made from any appropriatematerial, including plastic, metal, wood, or a combination thereof. Theframework 12 in this example is generally rectangular and is designedfor use as a seat bottom. In FIG. 1A, the frame structure 10 is shown inlateral cross section while it is shown in longitudinal cross section inFIG. 1C. In FIG. 11B, the frame structure 10 is shown in partiallysectioned top and bottom plan views, and the frame structure 10 is shownin a partially sectioned view in front elevation in FIG. 1D.

[0082] The framework 12 has a groove 26 that circumscribes its entireperiphery. In this embodiment, the framework 12 has what can beconsidered an obverse side capable of providing support, a peripheraledge, and a reverse side. The groove 26 in this embodiment is disposedin the reverse side of the framework 12. A fabric panel 16 is secured inplace relative to the framework 12 by a locking spline 18 that isdisposed in the groove 26 such that there is a mutual frictionalengagement between the locking spline 18, the walls of the groove 26,and the portion of the fabric panel 16 interposed therebetween. Underthis arrangement, the fabric panel 16 exits the groove 26, reverses overthe peripheral edge of the framework 12, and traverses the open area ofthe framework 12.

[0083] In this example, the groove 26 is generally U-shaped. The lockingspline 18 has a proximal portion that also is U-shaped and awedge-shaped distal portion. The locking spline 18 in this embodiment isformed from a resiliently compressible material, such as rubber,plastic, or any other suitable material or combination thereof. Thelocking spline 18 can be pressed, driven, injected, shot, or otherwiseinserted into the groove 26 to achieve the desired frictional engagementof the groove 26 and the desired retaining of the fabric panel 16. Thelocking spline 18 can include a relief portion 30, which in this examplecomprises an open volume in a central portion of the locking spline 18.The relief portion 30 facilitates the resilient compression of thelocking spline 18. The relief portion 30 also assists in locking thelocking spline 18 and the fabric panel 16 in place relative to thegroove 26.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the locking spline 18 could be formedfrom a material composition calibrated to cause it to harden over timeto cause it to become further fixed in place within the groove 26. Withproper material selection and, possibly, proper packaging and handling,the locking spline 18 itself could be soft and pliable upon initialapplication and then could harden over time thereby fixedly locking thelocking spline 18 and the fabric panel 16 in place.

[0085] In certain cases, the locking spline 18 could be generallyhomogenous. In other embodiments, the locking spline 18 could be formedfrom disparate materials. The disparate materials could be chosen toinduce a hardening of one or both materials under appropriateconditions, such as upon exposure to air, heating, mixing, and/or anyother effective method. In any such case, the locking spline 18 could beconsidered to be formed from a phase change material in that the lockingspline 18 would initially be in a relatively soft and pliable conditionbut would then change in phase to a relatively hard and rigid condition.

[0086] One example of an embodiment wherein disparate materials can formthe locking spline 18 is depicted in FIGS. 23 and 24. There, the lockingspline 18 has a star shaped core member 18B enveloped within acorrugated, generally annular sheath member 18A. In FIG. 23, the lockingspline 18 is shown in relation to an insertion member 200, which canpress the locking spline 18 into the groove 26. The materials of thesheath member 18A and the core member 18B are chosen to induce one orboth of them to harden, such as after a mixing as is shown in FIG. 24,induced by a pressing of the insertion member 200. The sheath member 18Aand the core member 18B could be maintained substantially or completelyseparately from one another prior to mixing by any suitable means,including by a film disposed therebetween or by their ownconfigurations. As previously described, the groove 26 can have a raisedinner wall to enable a trimming of the fabric panel 16, such as by acutting member 300.

[0087] In any case, the hardening of the locking spline 18 after theinsertion thereof into the groove 26 can be advantageous for a pluralityof reasons. For example, a hardened locking spline 18 will resistbecoming dislodged, whether due to tampering, impact forces, staticforces, or any other influence. Furthermore, where the locking spline 18has become hardened, it will provide evidence of tampering in that thelocking spline 18 would have to be damaged or destroyed with deliberateor extreme force to be removed from the groove 26.

[0088] In particular embodiments, the locking spline 18 could be furtherlocked in place by a secondary locking means 25. The secondary lockingmaterial 25 could take a variety of forms. In the example of FIG. 25,the secondary locking material 25 comprises a material that can beapplied in flowable form and that hardens once in place. As such, thesecondary locking material 25 could comprise an adhesive, a chemicalhardening agent that induces a hardening of itself and/or the lockingspline 18, or any other effective means. In the example of FIG. 25, amodesty member 28 has been partially embedded in the secondary lockingmaterial 25. Under this arrangement, the fabric panel 16 is retainedover a span substantially greater than 180 degrees.

[0089] A resiliently compressible member 14, which can be formed fromfoam, rubber, or any other suitable material or combination thereof, isinterposed between the fabric panel 16 and the framework 12 adjacent towhat may be considered a front edge of the frame structure 10. As FIG.1A shows most clearly, the resiliently compressible member 14 provides asmooth, curved upper surface over which the fabric panel 16 can travelto provide a comfortable, curved or “waterfall” support surface for auser. Looking to FIG. 1D, one sees that the resiliently compressiblemember 14 has a plurality of furrows 24 formed therein for facilitatinga compression of the resiliently compressible member 14.

[0090] Where the fabric panel 16 overlies the exposed edges of theframework 12, it may be necessary or desirable to provide a means forpreventing or limiting damage to the fabric panel 16, such as mightotherwise result from impacts between the frame structure 10 and anexternal structure (not shown). One such means is shown in FIGS. 1Athrough 1C in the form of an interior impact absorbing member 22 thatunderlies the fabric panel 16 along the forward exposed edge portion ofthe framework 12. The interior impact absorbing member 22 is formed froma compressible, preferably resiliently compressible, material. As aresult, in the event of an impact between the exposed edge of theframework 12 and an external structure, the impact would be absorbed anddistributed by the interior impact absorbing member 22 therebypreventing crushing and damage to the fabric panel 16.

[0091] An alternative or additional means for preventing or limitingdamage to the fabric panel 16 is also shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B in theform of an exterior bumper 20. The exterior bumper 20 could be formedfrom any appropriate material, including plastic, metal, wood, or anyother suitable material. The exterior bumper 20 is secured in placeoverlying the exposed edge of the framework 12 and over the fabric panel16. When so configured, the exterior bumper 20 protects the fabric panel16 from impact and other damage.

[0092] As FIGS. 2A through 2D show, the groove 26 can alternatively bedisposed along the peripheral edge of the framework 12 for receiving thelocking spline 18. Where the locking spline 18 and the groove 26 areexposed to view, a modesty member 28, such as a cord or the like, canoverly the locking spline 18 within the groove 26. In such anembodiment, the fabric panel 16 will again traverse at least part of theperipheral edge of the framework 12 and, therefore, may need a means forprotecting it from crushing and other damage. That means could againcomprise an exterior bumper 20, an interior impact absorbing member 22,or any other suitable means.

[0093] As FIG. 2C shows most clearly, the fabric panel 16 couldalternatively or additionally be protected against damage by having whatmay be considered the upper peripheral edge of the groove 26 recessed bya distance R relative to the lower peripheral edge of the groove 26.Under such an arrangement, most impacts between the framework 12 and anexternal structure will be met by the lower edge of the groove 26 whilethe fabric panel 16 overlying the upper edge of the groove 26 will beshielded by the lower edge of the groove and, therefore, protected.

[0094] As FIGS. 3A through 3D show, the groove 26 could alternatively bedisposed to the obverse side of the framework 12. In such aconstruction, means for protecting the fabric panel 16 would in alllikelihood no longer be necessary. A modesty member 28 can again beinserted into the groove 26 distal to the locking spline 18 forshielding the locking spline 18 from view and damage.

[0095] Turning to FIGS. 4A through 4D, one sees that the fabric panel 16could be employed as a “B” surface in that it could underlie and providesupport for an outer “A” surface, which could comprise a flat panelfabric, a foam material, a padded material or member, a pillow, anycombination thereof, or any other possible overlying material. In such acase, an “A” layer material 38 can be disposed overlying the fabricpanel 16 and left loose or fastened in place in any appropriate manner.In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A through 4D, the “A” layer material 38 issecured in place by mechanical fasteners 32, such as staples, tacks, orany other means. In this case, the mechanical fasteners 32 are driventhrough the “A” layer material 38 and directly into the locking spline18 within the groove 26.

[0096] In the alternative construction of FIGS. 5A through 5E, an “A”layer material 38 again overlies the fabric panel 16 and is againsecured in place by mechanical fasteners 32. In this embodiment,however, the “A” layer material 38 is secured relative to a secondarygroove 34 that has an insert 36, such as a rubber spline cord or thelike, disposed therein. The secondary groove 34 is disposed inboard ofthe groove 26. With this, the “A” layer material 38 automaticallyoverlies and protects the fabric panel 16 and the locking spline 18. Itis possible, of course, that the secondary groove 34 could be foregoneand the “A” layer material could simply be secured directly to theframework 12 by any suitable means.

[0097] In FIGS. 6A through 6C, one sees that an embodiment of theinvention can be constructed wherein the framework 12 includes a centralportion, in this case a central peninsula 42, for engaging the hardwareof a standard chair base mechanism (not shown), which is particularlyadvantageous since the frame structure 10 therefore does not require aspecifically designed base mechanism. The central peninsula 42 can haveone or more C-shaped channels 44 or other means for engaging the chairbase mechanism in an adjustable manner. Still further, pad members 14can be disposed about the periphery of the framework 12 for enhancingthe comfort and performance of the frame structure 10. To maintain thestructural integrity and position of the pad members 14, a retainingwall 40 can be disposed inboard thereof. The framework 12 can furtherinclude a plurality of fastener apertures 46 for retaining chair arms orthe like (not shown).

[0098] In the variant of FIGS. 7A through 7C, the C-shaped channels 44are replaced by fastener apertures 48 for acting as an alternative meansfor coupling to a chair base mechanism. Also, the rearward pad member 14and the retaining wall 40 of FIG. 6A are eliminated. While the peninsula42 can be considered useful for a number of reasons, including itsability to add resilience to the framework 12, it is equally possiblefor the framework 12 simply to have a central portion 50 that can bejoined at both ends to the peripheral portion of the framework 12. Forexample, as is shown in FIG. 8A, the central portion 50 can simplytraverse from a front portion to a rear portion of the framework 12.Also, as FIG. 8B shows, the central portion 50 can be joined to theremainder of the framework 12 in a Y-shaped format.

[0099] The embodiment of FIGS. 9A and 9B again shows that a retainingwall 40 can be disposed inboard of a pad member 14. Also, a groove 26can be employed for retaining the fabric panel 16 while a secondarygroove 34 can be employed to retain an “A” surface material 38. Thegroove 26 would again receive a locking spline 18 for retaining a fabricpanel 16, and the secondary groove 34 would again retain an insert 36for enabling an attachment of an “A” layer material.

[0100] As FIGS. 10A through 10C and 11A through 11C emphasize, thepresent invention can be employed relative to substantially anystructure. In those drawings, for example, the fabric panel 16 isretained relative to an arm pad framework 12. In FIGS. 10A through 10C,the arm pad framework 12 provides a continuous support surfaceunderlying the fabric panel 16. In FIGS. 11A through 11C, the arm padframework 12 has an open central area. Still further, in FIG. 1C, thearm pad framework 12 has a secondary groove 34 for enabling theapplication of an “A” surface material over the fabric panel 16.Fastening apertures 35 are provided for enabling a coupling of theframework 12 to an external structure, such as an arm support member ofa chair structure (not shown).

[0101] Looking to FIGS. 12A through 12E, one sees that the lockingspline 18 can have one or both of its sidewalls with a non-smoothsurface for enhancing the ability of the groove 26 and the lockingspline 18 to retain the fabric panel 16 in place most securely.Alternatively or additionally, the groove 26 can have one or bothsidewalls with a non-smooth surface for the same purpose as is alsodepicted in FIGS. 12A and 12E. In the present embodiment, both thelocking spline 18 and the groove 26 have serrated sidewalls such thatthey mechanically engage one another in supplementation of thepreviously described frictional engagement therebetween. Moreparticularly, the locking spline 18 has a plurality of barbs 50 on itssidewalls while the groove 26 has a plurality of furrows 52. The barbs50 and the furrows 52 can be correspondingly numbered, shaped, and/orlocated.

[0102] As FIG. 20 shows, a fabric panel 16 can be considered to beformed by a plurality of longitudinal fibers 16A and a plurality oflateral fibers 16B. Some or all of the longitudinal fibers 16A and thelateral fibers 16B can be elastomeric. Advantageously, the lockingspline 18 can securely engage and retain each longitudinal fiber 16Bthereby securely retaining the fabric panel in general. This isparticularly true when the locking spline 18 is provided with barbs 50and/or when the groove 26 has furrows 52. Further ensuring the securelocking of the fabric panel 16, the locking spline 18 engages the fabricpanel 16 over greater than a 180 degree span.

[0103] Looking to FIG. 21, an embodiment of the framework 12 is shownwherein the groove 26 is again disposed to the reverse side of theframework 12 such that the fabric panel 16 reverses over a curvedperipheral edge of the framework 12 to reach the obverse side of theframework 12 before traversing the open area of the framework 12. Underthis arrangement, the force F deriving from a weight W applied to thefabric panel 16, such as from the weight of a seat occupant, isprogressively dissipated from the point at which the fabric panel 16reaches the framework 12 to the point at which the fabric panel 16reaches the groove 26 and the locking spline 18. The force dissipationis advantageous in static load situations and is particularlyadvantageous in impact load situations.

[0104] As such, the force F₁ at point B is slightly less than theoriginal force F at point A, the force F₂ at point C is slightly lessthan the force F₁ at point B, and so on. With this, the force actuallyapplied to the groove 26 and the locking spline 18 is substantiallylessened, and the ability of the groove 26 and the locking spline 18 toretain the fabric panel 16 securely is significantly improved. The forcedissipation can be improved even further where the fabric panel 16travels over the resiliently compressible interior impact absorbingmember 22 due to the frictional interaction therebetween. It will beappreciated that, while the force dissipation is exemplified in relationto the frame structure 10 with the groove 26 disposed to the obverseside of the framework 12, force dissipation exists also relative toembodiments wherein the groove 26 is disposed in the peripheral edge andeven to the obverse side of the framework 12.

[0105] This force dissipation is in marked opposition to the typicalprior art frame structure 10′, which is depicted in FIG. 22. There, theperipheral edge of a fabric panel 16′ is directly retained by aframework 12′ with no prior overlapping of the framework 12′ or anyother member. As a result, the entire force F deriving from the weight Wmust be born directly by the retaining means in the prior art framestructure 10′. This stress concentration can lead to failure,particularly in impact load situations.

[0106] Under this construction, the locking spline 18 can be insertedinto the groove 26 with the fabric panel 16 interposed therebetween withthe barbs 50 and furrows 52 ensuring a secure mechanical engagement. Asone can appreciate from FIGS. 12B, 12C, and 12D, the locking spline 18could be crafted and installed in a number of different forms. Forexample, the locking spline 18 could be extruded or otherwise formed incontinuous lengths as in FIG. 12B, in mid-length segments as in 12C,and/or in relatively short segments as in FIG. 12D. Different lengths oflocking spline 18 can be used in combination where necessary ordesirable. Still further, as one can see most clearly from FIG. 12E, thegroove 26 can have an exposed wall for enabling a ready trimming of thefabric panel 16. The exposed wall in FIG. 12E comprises an extendedportion of the proximal side wall of the groove 26 such that a trimmingoperation can be carried out from exterior to the framework 12.

[0107] As one can appreciate by reference to FIGS. 12A and 12F, thelocking spline 18 can in any case be formed in varied widths. Forexample, the width of the locking spline 18 can vary from a relativelywide width, such as that referenced at A, to a relatively thin width,such as that referenced at E. Advantageously, such a calibration of thewidth of the locking spline 18 relative to the width of the groove 26can enable the same width groove 26 to be employed in retaining fabricpanels 16 of varied thicknesses. Where a relatively thin fabric panel 16is to be applied, a relatively wide locking spline 18 can be employed.Where a relatively thick fabric panel 16 is to be applied, a relativelythin locking spline 18 can be employed to enable it and the fabric panel16 to fit within the groove 26.

[0108] By reference to FIGS. 13A and 13B, one will again appreciate thatthe fabric panel 16 can be employed as a “B” surface material. There,the fabric panel 16 is designed to support a pillow or other removable“A” surface member 54. Further depicted in FIGS. 13A and 13B is that thefabric panel 16 can be further secured in place by a plurality ofmechanical fasteners 32 that can be received into the locking spline 18.

[0109]FIGS. 14A through 14C show that the groove 26 can have a pluralityof barb-shaped furrows 52 therein while the locking spline 18 can have arelatively smooth periphery. For example, the locking spline 18 can havea generally circular cross section except for a longitudinal groove 51therein. With this, where the locking spline 18 is formed from acompressible material, it can be pressed into the groove 26 in theframework 12 with the longitudinal groove 51 in the locking spline 18allowing a further yielding and resilient compression of the lockingspline 18. Again, the locking spline 18 can be formed in continuouslengths or in shorter lengths as shown in FIG. 14C.

[0110] Embodiments of the invention are contemplated wherein the groove26 has a broadened portion. The broadened portion could comprise thedeepest or proximal portion of the groove 26 as is shown in FIG. 26. Insuch an embodiment, the locking spline 18 can be retained both byfriction and by a mechanical engagement between the locking spline 18and the groove once the locking spline 18 has been pressed into thegroove 26.

[0111] Particularly where the locking spline 18 is formed in shorterlengths, one could contemplate the insertion of segments of lockingspline 18 into the groove 26 by an automated insertion device. Theautomated insertion device could, of course, take many forms. In onepresently contemplated manifestation, the insertion device essentiallycomprises an insertion gun that could insert segments of locking spline18 in series by use of cartridge, a serial coupling of multiple segmentsof locking spline, or any other suitable arrangement.

[0112] In the alternative arrangement of FIGS. 15A through 15C, thegroove 26 has opposed longitudinal receiving channels 56 therealong.With this, the fabric panel 16 can be secured in place by one or moreresiliently compressible V-shaped or U-shaped members 58 with outwardlyturned end portions. In one embodiment, the resiliently compressiblemembers 58 can be formed of a spring material, such as a resilientlydeflectable metal. As FIG. 15C shows, the resiliently compressiblemembers 58 can vary in length.

[0113] In the embodiment of FIGS. 16A through 16C, a secondary groove 34is disposed inboard of the groove 26. A shield member 60, which in thiscase is L-shaped, is received into the secondary groove 34 with a leg ofthe L-shaped shield member 60 at least partially overlying the groove26. With this, the locking spline 18 is further shielded from damage andtampering.

[0114] In FIG. 17, an “A” surface material 38 overlies the fabric panel16 and is secured in place by a plurality of mechanical fasteners 32that engage an insert 36 that is disposed in a secondary groove 34. Thesecondary groove 34 is again disposed inboard of the groove 26. Withthis, the fabric panel 16 and the locking spline 18 are shielded.

[0115] Looking to FIG. 18, an “A” surface material 38 again is disposedover the fabric panel 16. In this embodiment, the “A” surface material38 is retained in place by use of an insert 36 that is received into asecondary groove 34 that is disposed inboard of the groove 26. Theinsert 36, which can comprise a continuous spline or plural individualmembers, has a plurality of barbs or serrations 50 disposed thereon. Thesecondary groove 34 can have a plurality of longitudinal channels 52communicating along opposed walls thereof. Under this arrangement, theserrations 50 on the insert 36 can mechanically engage the channels 52on the secondary groove 34 to ensure that the “A” surface material 38 issecurely retained.

[0116] In each of the abovedescribed embodiments, the peripheral edge ofthe fabric panel 16 can be retained securely in place when the lockingspline 18 is disposed within the groove 26. The fabric panel 16 cansimply be secured in place with no pretensioning. Alternatively, a givendegree of pretensioning can be induced to establish desired performancecharacteristics for the fabric panel 16 and the frame structure 10 ingeneral. Pretensioning can be particularly advantageous where the framestructure 10 forms a part of an article of furniture, such as a seatbottom as is depicted in a plurality of the drawings presented herewith.

[0117] In certain embodiments, the initial tension can be generallyuniform along the length of the peripheral edge of the fabric panel 16,and the fabric panel 16 can have uniform elastic and other properties ineach direction. Other embodiments of the invention are possible whereinthe initial tension can be non-uniform along the peripheral edge of thefabric panel 16. Alternatively or additionally, the elastic propertiesof the fabric panel 16 can vary along the length thereof. By either orboth methods, the fabric panel 16 and the frame structure 10 can becalibrated to have variable performance characteristics. For example,with a variable pretensioning pattern and/or a fabric panel 16 withvariable elastic properties, an elastic fabric panel 16 can have varieddeflection properties.

[0118] With proper calibration, therefore, the tension and deflectionproperties of the fabric panel 16 can be controlled in zones as isexemplified in FIG. 19. There, the schematically depicted framestructure 10 comprises a seat bottom for supporting the legs 100 of aseat occupant. The tension and deflection zones of the fabric panel 16vary in proportion to the force characteristics exhibited by a typicalseat occupant both in what can be considered a longitudinal directionaligned with the legs 100 of the seat occupant and a lateral direction.In the longitudinal direction, maximum support can be provided where thegreatest longitudinal force F₁ due to the weight of the seat occupantcan be expected to reduced support where lesser longitudinal forces F₂,F₃, and F₄ and F₂′, F₃′, and F₄′ would typically be expected. In thelateral direction, maximum support can be provided where the greatestlateral forces F_(A) would be likely to progressively reduced supportwhere lesser lateral forces F_(B), F_(C), F_(D), F_(E), and F_(F) andF_(B)′, F_(C)′, and F_(D)′ would be typical. As such, the longitudinaland lateral support zones will intersect and combine with one another toachieve an overall support pattern.

[0119] With certain details and embodiments of the present invention formethods and arrangements for securing fabric disclosed, it will beappreciated by one skilled in the art that numerous changes andadditions could be made thereto without deviating from the spirit orscope of the invention. This is particularly true when one bears in mindthat the presently preferred embodiments merely exemplify the broaderinvention revealed herein. Accordingly, it will be clear that those withmajor features of the invention in mind could craft embodiments thatincorporate those major features while not incorporating all of thefeatures included in the preferred embodiments.

[0120] Therefore, the following claims are intended to define the scopeof protection to be afforded to the inventor. Those claims shall bedeemed to include equivalent constructions insofar as they do not departfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. It must be further notedthat a plurality of the following claims express certain elements asmeans for performing a specific function, at times without the recitalof structure or material. As the law demands, these claims shall beconstrued to cover not only the corresponding structure and materialexpressly described in this specification but also all equivalentsthereof.

I claim as deserving the protection of Letters Patent:
 1. An arrangementfor securing fabric relative to a framework, the arrangement comprising:a framework; a groove in the framework; and a locking spline for beingreceived into the groove in the framework; whereby a fabric panel can beretained relative to the framework by an insertion of the locking splineinto the groove with a portion of the fabric panel disposed between thelocking spline and the groove.
 2. The arrangement of claim 1 wherein theframework has an obverse side, a peripheral edge, and a reverse side. 3.The arrangement of claim 2 wherein the groove is disposed to the reverseside of the framework whereby the fabric panel can be applied to theframework with a portion of the fabric panel retained within the grooveand with the fabric panel reversing over the peripheral edge of theframework and traversing at least a portion of the framework.
 4. Thearrangement of claim 2 wherein the groove is disposed in the peripheraledge of the framework whereby the fabric panel can be applied to theframework with a portion of the fabric panel retained within the grooveand with the fabric panel reversing over a portion of the framework andtraversing at least a portion of the framework.
 5. The arrangement ofclaim 1 wherein the groove is generally U-shaped.
 6. The arrangement ofclaim 1 wherein the groove has a broadened proximal portion whereby thelocking spline can be mechanically retained within the groove.
 7. Thearrangement of claim 1 wherein the locking spline is formed from aresiliently compressible material.
 8. The arrangement of claim 7 whereinthe locking spline includes a relief portion for enabling a resilientcompression of the locking spline.
 9. The arrangement of claim 7 whereinthe locking spline incorporates a means for causing the locking splineto harden over time whereby the locking spline can be locked within thegroove.
 10. The arrangement of claim 7 further comprising a secondarylocking material operably associated with the locking spline foradditionally securing the locking spline within the groove.
 11. Thearrangement of claim 1 wherein the framework has a peripheral portionand an open central area.
 12. The arrangement of claim 2 furthercomprising an interior impact absorbing member disposed along theperipheral edge of the framework for underlying the fabric panel toprevent crushing and damage to the same.
 13. The arrangement of claim 2further comprising an exterior impact absorbing member for overlying thefabric panel along the peripheral edge of the framework to preventcrushing and damage to the fabric panel.
 14. The arrangement of claim 1wherein the groove has a first edge and a second edge and wherein thefabric panel exits the groove to the first edge side of the groove andwherein the second edge of the groove extends distally relative to thefirst edge of the groove whereby the fabric panel is protected againstcrushing and damage.
 15. The arrangement of claim 2 further comprising asecondary groove for enabling a retention of a secondary material. 16.The arrangement of claim 15 wherein the groove and the secondary grooveare disposed to the reverse side of the framework.
 17. The arrangementof claim 16 wherein the secondary groove is disposed inboard of thegroove whereby the secondary material will overly the fabric panel. 18.The arrangement of claim 17 further comprising an insert within thesecondary groove for enabling a retention of the secondary material. 19.The arrangement of claim 1 wherein the groove traverses adjacent tosubstantially an entire periphery of the framework and wherein theframework has a central portion for enabling a coupling of the frameworkto an external structure.
 20. The arrangement of claim 19 wherein thecentral portion comprises a peninsula.
 21. The arrangement of claim 1wherein the groove has at least one sidewall with non-smooth surface.22. The arrangement of claim 21 wherein the groove has at least oneserrated sidewall.
 23. The arrangement of claim 1 wherein the lockingspline has at least one non-smooth surface.
 24. The arrangement of claim23 wherein the locking spline has at least one serrated surface.